Saina reckons shuttlers to win three medals

Bengaluru: Indian badminton enjoyed its most successful Asian Games at the previous edition in Hangzhou where they won three medals – a gold, silver and bronze. Despite the shuttlers’ form blowing hot and cold this season, former badminton ace Saina Nehwal tipped them to match the haul at Nagoya, Japan.”I think overall, the team looks very strong, confident. You know, in big tournaments, there are a lot of expectations. It does add a little bit more pressure as it (Asian Games) happens once in four years,” said Saina in an interaction organised by Sony Sports Network.”In (men’s singles) we have Ayush Shetty and Lakshya Sen. Treesa (Jolly) and Gayatri (Gopichand) won the bronze medal in the World Championship. Satwik-Chirag (Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty) are there. We also have (P V) Sindhu, Tanvi (Sharma) and Ashmita (Chaliha). I would say we can definitely come back with three medals.”After going through a brief lull, Satwik and Chirag found their top form by winning the China Masters earlier this month. Saina reckoned the duo will find it hard to defend their men’s doubles gold but was confident of them standing on the podium.”The competition is so tough in men’s doubles, anything can happen on any day, because in top eight, at least, everyone plays at the same level. But Satwik and Chirag, the way they played in the China Open, I hope they continue the same form.Asian Games Opening Ceremony | Here is all you need to know “Sometimes the court matters, the shuttle matters, the conditions matter. One partner can have a good day and the other an off day. So everything should align. However, I feel, with the way they have played this year, a couple of good wins, and then China Open, I’m sure they can come back with a medal this time as well. They are very experienced.”One of the singles players who has made a massive impression this season is Ayush Shetty, the Mangalurean winning a silver at the Badminton Asia Championship and twice defeating world No. 1 Shi Yuqi. Saina praised the 21-year-old’s temperament.”His attitude is very positive. Every match which I’m watching of his, he’s not giving up. He has the same attitude which is excellent. It’s not like one match he’s showing extremely good attitude and another match he’s dull. He’s on fire all the time.”He’s been playing two years at a good level. I think he needs a couple of more big wins to get there. But overall, his smashes are very powerful, his rallies have improved a lot more, and defeating world number one is not easy and he’s done it twice this year. It’ll be his debut Asian Games and I expect him to do well. I feel Lakshya can win a medal because he’s played at the highest level and he’s confident. But magic can happen with Ayush.”Note: Watch Asian Games 2026 starting September 19, 2026, live and exclusive on Sony Sports Network and Sony LIV.

Source: Deccan Herald